Choosing Right Spa Component Materials: Balancing Performance, Cost, and Application

The material selection for spa components not only determines product performance but also influences user experience, brand reputation, and after-sales stability. Therefore, how to make scientific trade-offs based on component functions, usage environments, and target market positioning during material selection is a practical issue that every OEM client and system purchaser in the spa industry must address. This article will introduce several commonly used materials for spa components, presenting clear information through analogies and comparisons in combination with different application scenarios, to facilitate procurement decisions that balance performance, cost, and user experience.

The selection of materials for spa components is never an either/or choice between metals and non-metals, but rather a combinatorial decision that artfully pairs the two based on different usage scenarios and budgetary plans. The key to such combinations lies in a thorough understanding of the unique properties of various metallic and non-metallic materials — their respective standout advantages and unavoidable limitations. Only by doing so can each material be placed in its most suitable position to maximize its value.

Metal materials, with properties of sturdiness, heat resistance and corrosion resistance, play different roles in different application scenarios of spa components. Only by understanding the differences in properties, advantages and disadvantages of these commonly used metal materials can we achieve reasonable selection and optimal matching.

Stainless steel is an iron-based alloy that enhances corrosion resistance and mechanical properties by adding chromium (Cr) and nickel (Ni). 304 stainless steel and 316 stainless steel are the two most commonly used in industry, among which 316 stainless steel has stronger chlorine corrosion resistance due to containing molybdenum.

Aluminum alloy is a lightweight structural material mainly composed of aluminum, mixed with small amounts of metals such as magnesium and silicon. Due to its light weight, high thermal conductivity, and flexible surface treatment methods, aluminum alloy is often used in structural decorations like thermal cover brackets. It can not only reduce the overall weight of the equipment but also has good visual ductility. Its oxidation treatment can provide a variety of color options to meet OEM appearance customization needs.

In the field of SPA components, non-metallic materials, with their unique chemical stability, plasticity, and lightweight properties, also demonstrate significant advantages in cost control and design aesthetics, thus occupying an important position in the production of housings, connectors, and comfort components. 

ABS is one of the most commonly used engineering plastics. It is tough, lightweight, and easy to process, and is widely used in non-pressure-bearing parts such as sprinkler housings and control buttons. Its surface is suitable for electroplating and painting treatments, making it the preferred appearance material for standard spa products.

PVC is a widely used plastic material that can be modified with plasticizers to adjust its hardness, resulting in both rigid and flexible forms. In spa fittings, rigid PVC is widely used. With excellent corrosion resistance and sealing capability, it is extensively applied in the piping sections of spa systems.

Compared with PVC, PP offers better heat resistance, higher toughness, and lower density. Its non-hygroscopic nature and lightweight properties make it a preferred material for many spa components requiring reduced weight. It is commonly used in S-shaped drain traps, water seal assemblies, and certain antibacterial parts. In addition, PP features excellent chemical stability, making it resistant to aging and cracking even after long-term use.

PC is a high-transparency, impact-resistant engineering plastic. It can withstand minor impacts while maintaining excellent light transmittance, making it commonly used for LED light covers, transparent inspection windows, and control panels.

PS is a thermoplastic material with high rigidity and easy moldability, suitable for non-pressure-bearing decorative structures.

PU is a polymer material with a soft touch, ideal for components that come into frequent contact with the human body. With strong cushioning, compression resistance, and abrasion resistance, it is one of the key materials for enhancing user comfort.

Different materials exhibit different functional properties when used in various spa system environments. These differences are closely related not only to the material itself, but also to the spa system's structure and medium conditions. Therefore, when selecting materials, buyers should not only focus on the inherent performance of the material, but more importantly, its ''environmental adaptability''.

System characteristics: powered by an air blower, air is injected through jets to create a bubbling massage effect

System characteristics: provides stable water flow, maintains temperature balance and water filtration

System characteristics: heats the water to a comfortable temperature (typically 35–42°C) and maintains it steadily

System characteristics: creates ambiance and enhances user experience, a key design element in premium spas

System characteristics: directly contacts the human body, enhancing comfort and relaxation during bathing

System characteristics: responsible for user interaction, status display, and system adjustment – the core interface for users

High-temperature scenarios (above 40°C): Avoid materials with poor thermal stability such as PVC and PS. Recommended options include PP, PC, and stainless steel.

Outdoor spa systems: Materials must be UV-resistant, weatherproof, and anti-aging. Recommended materials include PC, stainless steel, and weather-grade ABS.

Water-contact parts (e.g., jets, drains): Require corrosion resistance and scale prevention. Suitable materials include stainless steel, PVC, and brass.

Commercial spa systems: Designed for frequent use; materials should be highly durable and pressure-resistant. Recommended choices include 316 stainless steel, brass, and PC.

Material selection not only determines product performance but also significantly impacts user experience, brand reputation, and after-sales stability.

1.Rigorous Material Evaluation System: raw material inspection, batch traceability, and multiple rounds of testing

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